FAQ

If you are receiving IV anesthesia for your oral surgery, you should not eat or drink anything for at least 6–8 hours before the procedure to prevent complications. However, if your surgery only requires local anesthesia, you may eat a light meal beforehand, but it is best to avoid heavy or greasy foods. Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions regarding food and drink before your appointment to ensure a safe and smooth procedure.

It is crucial not to smoke for at least 12 hours before your surgery. Smoking can interfere with the anesthesia and the healing process. Ideally, you should stop smoking as soon as possible before the day of surgery to ensure the best possible recovery and reduce complications.

If you are receiving IV anesthesia for your oral surgery, you must have a responsible adult accompany you to your appointment and drive you home, as the sedation can impair your ability to drive or make decisions. However, if you are only receiving nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you do not need someone to accompany you, as its effects wear off quickly. It’s always a good idea to check with your or surgeon for specific recommendations based on your procedure and sedation type.

If you receive IV anesthesia for your oral surgery, you cannot drive yourself home and must arrange for a responsible adult to take you. However, if you only receive nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you can typically drive yourself home, as its effects wear off quickly. Always follow your oral surgeon’s specific post-operative instructions to ensure your safety.

Please wear loose-fitting clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up past your elbows. This will help ensure comfort during the procedure and allow for easy access to the area being treated. Additionally, it is recommended that you wear low-heeled shoes to avoid any risk of tripping when you are feeling groggy after the procedure.

No, please refrain from wearing lipstick, excessive makeup, or nail polish on the day of surgery. These can interfere with monitoring your vital signs and make it more difficult for the doctor to assess your health during the procedure. It's best to come with a clean face to ensure everything goes smoothly.

If you have any signs of illness, such as a cold, sore throat, or an upset stomach, please notify the office right away. Being sick can affect the outcome of the surgery and interfere with anesthesia. Dr. Gulino may need to reschedule your procedure for another time to ensure your safety and health.

No, with light sedation, you will remain awake but in a relaxed, slightly drowsy state. This allows you to be comfortable while the doctor performs the procedure. You won't feel any pain, but you will still be able to respond to the doctor if necessary.

After your procedure, Dr. Gulino will provide specific instructions on when you can eat or drink. You will likely start with liquids and soft foods once you feel alert and comfortable and after the gauze is removed. It's important to follow the post-surgery guidelines to avoid any discomfort or complications during your recovery.

You should discuss any medications you are currently taking with Dr. Gulino or his team before surgery. Some medications may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped prior to the procedure. It's important to follow their advice to ensure that the anesthesia works properly and to avoid any adverse reactions.

If you're feeling anxious or nervous, let Dr. Gulino or the office staff know. They are here to ensure your comfort and can provide information or additional support to ease your mind. Understanding the process and knowing what to expect can often help reduce anxiety before surgery.

Light sedation will make you feel relaxed and slightly drowsy, but you will remain awake and aware. You won't experience pain, and you'll feel calm throughout the procedure. This type of sedation is beneficial because it allows you to recover quickly once the surgery is complete and you're no longer under the effects of anesthesia.

After your procedure, you will likely need to rest for at least 24 hours. You should avoid strenuous activities during this time to allow your body to recover. If you feel groggy or fatigued after the sedation, it's important to take it easy and follow Dr. Gulino's instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.